About Olivia D.

I started playing the ukulele around age 18 and began teaching at 22. I love this instrument, and I love teaching it to kids. It's a simple but wonderful sounds and so fun to play. I'll focus on technique, chords, tab, finger picking, song studies, etc.

About Olivia

I love to create. The way I'm most comfortable creating is through writing; whether it's a song, a short story, a poem or a script. Writing has always been the bass line in my life; the heartbeat.

Music and film are both passions of mine. I graduated from Berklee College of Music where I studied Songwriting and Music Therapy. I was pushed to my absolute limits lyrically and musically within these majors, and I am so grateful for it now that I'm on my own creative journey.

I have a great deal of experience, but I am also still learning. I think it is very important as a teacher to always be learning, especially through their students. Teaching these lessons is, of course, about progress and advancement - but also about enjoyment, confidence building and positive encouragement.

...

Reviews

Kathleen A. Brennan February 26, 2018·Guitar·In home

Olivia is positive and very skilled. I believe I will learn a great deal from her expertise combined with her personable manner of teaching.

Paul February 20, 2018·Singing·Online

My daughter LOVES Olivia - she is a great teacher and maximizes each hour with her, teaching her skills she can use and build on week after week. She is very knowledgable and teaches in a logical, structured manner to ensure that the subject is understood and true learning occurs. Olivia is patient with our daughter as she learns new concepts and provides great feedback. We couldn't be happier with the lessons Olivia presents to our daughter!

I have a Masters Degree in music from The University of Melbourne in Australia, as well as having the distinction of a Bachelors Degree in Music from Cornish College of the Arts in Seattle.

***********

Hello! :)

Many times a student will come to me after having been with another teacher for some time,.. they express to me that the other instructor did not teach them what they wanted to learn, nor did they achieve the result that they wanted.

The instructor perhaps had them mired in endless exercises and studies that were great

to get you READY to play music, but perhaps was not music in and of itself.

I find that when I get right down to the nitty gritty of playing, and show my students a song they love and know, and get them playing guitar by the end of the session that they are usually thrilled and excited.

In the end it makes them work harder and practice long because THEY ARE PLAYING MUSIC ON THE GUITAR!!!

Certainly exercises are of paramount importance, but when you can make that connection with a student and help them to relate to the guitar the exercises are ultimately easier to them, and the experience of playing guitar an enjoyable and less alienating task.

Grab your guitar and start today!! Let's get you playing TODAY!!!!

TESTIMONIALS:

“I've been working with David for a couple of months, and it has been a great experience. I'm new to bass, with a little guitar experience--he quickly sized up what I knew and had me working on exercises and a great bass line that got me playing right away. He has been very flexible and accommodating of my schedule needs, and he gives plenty of positive and constructive feedback. I've been working in education for nearly 30 years, and I know a great teacher when I see one. David fits the bill, and I'm lucky to be working with him.”

Rudy Ford, PrincipalCharles Wright Middle School

“My son had been taking lessons for seven years and was losing interest. David's passion for music, knowledge of music theory, ability to read the student and know the best way to approach the lessons is exactly what my son needed. Along with his background in a wide variety of genres….classical, rock, jazz, etc. has made learning more exciting, resulting in a renewed interest.”

Tammy Sartain, University Place

“David is an outstanding instructor! My son is 5 years old and loves him. My son is occasionally a difficult child with his own special quirks, but David is so patient and observant and tailors the lessons as we go along week to week to keep my son engaged, encouraged and learning. I also have two younger children who must tag along to the lesson and even they are excited during the lessons and are already asking when they start their lessons! We will be starting at least one more child's lessons with him during this coming school year! He is great!”

Cherise Hartman, Parkland

“Loving the relaxed atmosphere with David. Bargain prices for the one on one experience with such an awesome, educated and talented musician.”

Raven Rose, Tacoma

“David is an amazing talent and provides me with much needed inspiration. In little over a year, I have learned a tremendous amount about nearly all styles of guitar, classical and lead guitar in particular. It's very helpful to have an awesome instructor who is extremely knowledgeable and very patient. His lesson plans are geared towards what I want to learn and the lessons that we work on cover all the techniques that are necessary to take my skills to the next level. He makes every lesson fun and he works with me until I am comfortable to move on.”

Larry Larrivee, Gig Harbor

“David tailors each lesson dynamically to my own progression which has been great. Gauges progression and gives you things to work on before the next lesson. Highly recommend him!”

Kory Jamison, Tacoma

"David has been our son's guitar instructor for the better part of a year. During that time we've appreciated his patient encouragement, especially during the early weeks of instruction. His ability to individually tailor his teaching to his students , incorporating their musical interests has helped our son progress quickly and helped keep him motivated. he really is a wonderful teacher."

Amy Lawty, Tacoma

"Where do I begin? I started with a guitar and a couple of chords...(A lot of desire but basically an empty canvas)." 'This was my life for a number of years until I met David.

Now I must first admit, I am ADD so teaching me and captivating my attention is no easy task...David not only broke through that barrier but opened the door to world of music I had aways felt and now suddenly I could touch.

If you posses the desire to learn and the drive to work...the sky is the limit."

Wes HoughCity of DestinyTacoma, WA

"I am very happy with my decision to take lessons with David. In just 2 months I've gone from strumming some chords to understanding picking patterns, learning how to put together an entire song, and expanding my techniques. I am very surprised at how much technical skill I have been able to pick up in such a short period of time"

Marianne Burch, Tacoma

"I'm 46 years old and my only known talent is for overcomplicating things. I've always admired a good guitar player and wanted to learn to play myself--who doesn't?--but felt I didn't have the talent or just "couldn't do it." Then I found David and he said, 'Oh yes you can. Commit to 4 lessons up front and you'll see that you can.' I took the leap and sure enough, he had me playing blues riffs in less than one month. All I had to do was listen and do as he instructed me to and it all comes very naturally. There's no stress, just a whole lot of fun! If you're like me and you thought you couldn't play guitar, start with David and just have some fun with it. It's simple. You won't want to put the guitar down again!"

Dan DuBeau, Tacoma

I had been playing guitar for about 5 years and had only been self taught. I found myself completely stuck playing the same chords and not able to play riffs or solos at all. In my first lesson I was playing the blues with slides and hammer ons and pull offs. In a couple of lessons he had me soloing in different keys and playing riffs from guitar gods! He was able to teach me in a couple lessons what took me years trying to teach myself! He makes lessons so much fun because not only are you learning the music theory but he relates it to popular songs that you can practice along with. He also has so much knowledge in other aspects as well. He can teach you about music gear and amps or help you compose your own music. He caters to your style and taste in music and can teach you ANYTHING!

Ashley Allen

I love guitar period, but it's overtly frustrating when you have no idea where to start, or how to play at all. I went through multiple guitar instructors trying to learn how to play and each of them weren't very specific, or didn't hone in on any one thing at a time so you could really start to get it down and process it. Then we happened to find David, and he was really what we were looking for. I started picking up chords like no other, It helped, and is helping tremendously. He goes into depth about the song,letting you comprehend it a little more, and ultimately learning it quicker and better.

Skye Reed, Tacoma WA

I have had 4 different Blues guitar Teacher in the last 6 months, getting nowhere as far as really playing some Blues until I ran across David. The other teachers just wanted me to learn the pentatonic scales, Major and Minor. That took a lot of boring weeks and I am sure I will need to know those scales but I just wanted someone to show / teach me Blues chords, related to Blues songs and the timing to the chord changes so I could start playing some kind of Blues. I have had 6 one hour lessons so far with David and I am playing the Blues. The first 4 hours Dave showed me a E, A, B7 blues chord progression with some step up and step down notes. The 2nd 2 hours Dave showed me a A, D9, A7,E9 Blues chords and Blues timing with slides.

I take one hour Lessons every Thursday and in 6 hours I am playing the Blues. I picked up the guitar about 6 months ago, started teaching myself and not really getting anywhere. I am not a fast learner, about average in learning something new. Now I set a home Learning my guitar and polishing the Blues songs that David has taught me, starting to get FUN.

Les Fairley Tacoma, Wa.

Working with David has made me focus on areas of my chops that needed fine tuning. He provides the basic exercises and tools that, when practiced enough in a zen-like manner, clarifies your understanding of movement on the fret board, and makes you sound a bit more professional. Questions regarding speed, theory, notation, composition, and even string size, are ready for answer with David, which is what keeps me working with him. From begining, to intermediate, to professional levels, if you're looking to improve your chops, Dave's your guy.

Frank Lorenzo, Seattle WA

I had tried many different instructors and had become very frustrated with trying to learn guitar. Within one lesson David had me playing ACDC and RUSH! David just has a way of explaining things so that they make sense and doesn't waste any time getting right down to the nuts and bolts of guitar. A lot of other instructors spend alot of time getting you 'ready' to play guitar, but with David we got down to playing guitar right away!

Stevie Johannsen, Olympia WA

“I started receiving lessons from David a few years ago, to improve my guitar abilities. I always used to tell people, "I've been playing guitar since the Eighties, though you would never know it." At the time I started, I knew some Metal riffs, three-chord Punk Rock progressions, and simple 12-bar blues. Though I took two guitar classes and first-year Music Theory in college in the early Nineties, the only scale I could say I knew was "blues pentatonic," emphasis on the quotation marks.

My goal was to relearn Modes/Scales, and brush up on theory, so that I could write more complex material. David taught me that, and so much more. Over these few years, I've learned Progressive Rock, Fusion/Jazz, and even some Country styles, as well as a great deal more about Metal and, yes, even Punk from David. I can play leads and solos with much more proficiency, in timing with the rhythm, and more tonally correct, than I ever could before. He has also helped me read music better, construct more professional-sounding compositions, and has started me on my own path to produce my own recordings, from recommending and using recording software, to capturing dynamics with mic placement, to mixing the rough takes to get the most out of the sound.

For a musician of any level or caliber, having an instructor like David is a true asset--for he has the knowledge and skills to take an entry-level musician every step of the way to becoming a professional performer, recorder, mixer, engineer, and producer. The only limit to the lesson's potential is your own level of determination, which David quite expertly helps you to improve with every session. Even if your goal is to simply learn to play one song on one instrument--and David teaches MANY instruments--he will have you playing that song like the musician who wrote it before you realize it--as long as you stick with your practice between lessons. That part's up to you!”

Marc Q Digby, Apple Valley CA

*** Studio Equipment ***MacLogicPresonusinvariable guitars, amps, keyboards, and other stuff.Tama drumset, Full Mic's.University trained mind and honed skills. Who cares about the software.

*** Specialties ***Generally come from conservatory/ classical background so utilize classical methods of teaching with a contemporary application to suit modern day application

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Reviews

Geoffrey March 15, 2018·Acoustic Guitar·In home

It was nice to meet and begin lessons. David asked some good questions and we set some goals in advance. I look forward to learning a lot from David who is very welled versed in all styles of guitar repertoire.

Elisabeth B. November 29, 2017·Piano·In home

My son loves to impress David with his progress. David provides great instruction and encouragement. My son has greatly improved his piano playing due to this fantastic teacher.

Daniel June 17, 2017·Guitar·In studio

I have had one lesson with David, and it is enough to tell that he is a great teacher. He clearly knows how to play guitar. He is both encouraging and firm. He explained to me the expectations for my practice and what he wants me to learn by next week, but was also very understanding whenever I made a mistake. I told him about my experience in other hobbies, and from that he was able to use analogies that made sense to me that would help me learn the techniques he was teaching. I am very happy to have David as my guitar teacher.

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David C.

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David C.

Online

(23)

starting at

$25
/ 30-min

About Robert M.

One of my favorite instruments as it is so accessible for very person and age. Prepare to play in several style and techniques including Hawaiian, Pop, Rock, and Folk. You will be surprised how much you can do with this increasingly popular instrument. Check out my videos from my elementary school students.

About Robert

New students accepted for Online only!

I am a Music EC-12 Certified Educator with a degree from The University of St. Thomas and a Masters of Music Education from Texas Christian University.

My previous career roles include being Children's Choir Director for All Saints Catholic School (2015-16), instructor at Cool Cats, General Music Educator for Stafford Elementary School in Stafford Municipal School District (2011-15), and my current General Music position in Irving ISD. My education experience covers many schools and programs in the Houston area, including various HISD schools as well as working for the University of St. Thomas Music Preparatory school as vocal, ukulele, bass guitar, music history/theory, and piano instructor.

My background in music is mostly vocal, working with choirs and ensembles my entire life. I have al

so spread my abilities to work with Bass Guitar, Acoustic Guitar, Piano, ukulele, and voice. I have many experiences with different genres such as American Folk Music, Jazz (Early to Fusion), and contemporary Rock/Pop, World Music, Christian/Worship/Catholic Liturgy, Rn'B, and Country music.

As an Music Educator, I have the strengths of being a distinguished musician and Professional educator which provides me with advanced knowledge in my field of study and interest, teaching for every age group from pre-school to Adult as well as influencing the fun, creativity, and expression of music no matter what the instrument.

*** Lesson Details ***The music lessons will consist of a concise and strong education of their instrument as well as essential theory and history. I develop individual lesson plans for each student and subject, working on formative goals and objectives to work towards for every lesson and throughout the year. I look forward to being able to help students accomplish and enjoy their instrument, utilizing their interests and genres with a variety of texts and literature at many levels, looking to always expand my own collection to meet the needs of the students. I am comfortable with providing digital and paper materials as well as providing recordings and video studying resources. I know in my heart and mind that I have something to offer to any student at any level in my studio, and, I am equally as passionate about providing an honest atmosphere for evaluation and positive criticism. With every lesson I always encourage brief reflection over the practice, study, and instruction, responding to every critical juncture that comes along the way. Being a certified educator and music instructor, I know that respect, understanding, honesty, human emotion, communication, and professionalism are the most critical components of a healthy Teacher-Student relationship.

Over 3000 Lessons taught with Takelessons since 2010

*** Studio and Resources ***I have the necessary tools to operate in and out of my studio. Within my workplace I always have my electric keyboard, acoustic guitar, electric guitar, bass guitar, ukulele, music library, printer/scanner, recording equipment, full sound system with mixer amp, guitar amp, microphone and stand, tuner, music stands, iPad stand, and comfortable space and seating. I also have expanded my studio capabilities that is an entirely digitized database and curriculum. I expect for the students to provide their own instrument so that they are able to practice at home. I operate on MAC OS and IPad systems that maximize the technological uses of my in home studio.Be prepared to learn more than you ever anticipated as I provide many resources. I also push for supplemental music instruction within the lessons, adding basic training and music learning skills needed for accompaniment instruments such as the acoustic guitar, ukulele, and piano which allow for students to have a stronger understanding of their music.

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Reviews

Luke B. June 10, 2017·Piano·In home

It was for my grandson. Robert seems very nice and good with kids. I'm very pleased with him.

Diana H. June 2, 2017·Guitar·In home

I asked my daughter to compare Robert to her old teacher on a scale of 1 to 5, she said 10, because she learned twice as much in one session than she did in 5 lessons with her old instructor!

Luc N. June 2, 2017·Guitar·In home

Luc already knows piano and was at first reluctant to learn until he got Robert- he actually said he looks forward to the next lesson

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Robert M.

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Robert M.

Online

(35)

starting at

$26
/ 30-min

About Joey S.

About Joey

I am a professional bassist/guitarist with 30 years experienced playing in various bands, both locally and nationally known with styles including Rock, thrash, metal, blues, praise & worship, even country. I began taking piano lessons in grade school, played saxophone in middle school, and taught my first guitar lesson in high school. I am currently in a Christian Rock band that is signed with a major label. I have written many songs, which are copyrighted. I own and operate McDonough Music located in McDonough, GA and provide lessons there.

*** Lesson Details ***I strive to give my students the resources they need to reach their own personal goals they have set for themselves. My students can expect laid back, but extremely productive lessons. I want to find out what best suits each student and what style of music they like and tea

ch from that. The more passionate you are about something the greater the impact will be. You will learn basic techniques that will help you build the foundation to jumpstart a musical career. If you want to be the next Led Zeppelin I will get you on the road to rock and roll; if you want to be the next Mark Hall then I will help you become the next great worship leader. Whatever your goals may be as a student, throughout a series of lessons and practice at home, I will help you easily obtain and surpass your goals as a musician.

*** Studio Equipment ***Music Store with seating for parents

*** Specialties ***I make sure students not only learn to play, but understand basic theory behind what they are playing. I show them how to play songs they wish to learn and how to perform them if they wish. I generally follow classic rock and pop styles, though can do others.

...

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Joey S.

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Joey S.

McDonough, GA 30252

starting at

$30
/ 30-min

About Linda L.

I have been teaching a variety of fretted stringed instruments, for over 25 years. Ukulele is a fun and easy instrument for beginners of any age to learn! I teach chords, strumming, finger-picking, and melody lines, and know lots of songs that are particularly good for the ukulele. Students may choose to learn to read music, or to read tablature, or just play by rote and from lesson videos. All of my lessons are customized to match each individual student's interests and preferred learning styles. (With very young children, I will have the child learn to play and sing popular children's songs.)

About Linda

*** Travel Equipment ***I do not typically provide any equipment - but I am willing to select and purchase books for the students to learn from (cost of books to be reimbursed by the student/parent) when requested to do so.

I am also willing to provide stick-on note-names for the keyboard, for young children.

The students must have their own instruments, and provide a folder for sheet music and notes/instructions.

*** Specialties ***Guitar, I specialize in the following styles: jazz, rock, blues, folk, bluegrass, and children's songs.Piano: I prefer electronic keyboard to acoustic piano, but am happy to teach beginning students on a regular piano as well. I teach note-reading, playing by ear, and theory, with en emphasis on rock, pop, and folk music. I include arranging, chord theory, and use of the many features of an elec

tronic keyboard, in the lessons.Bass Guitar: I teach rock, pop, funk, and country music on bass.Banjo: I teach bluegrass, country, and some blues and rock music. I can also teach a bit of old-timey frailing/clawhammer style.English and Reading: I am highly qualified, to tutor/teach English (spoken, written, and reading comprehension) to both native English speakers and to those learning it as a second language.*** I am particularly good at working with children who have a.d.h.d. and other learning disabilities!

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Reviews

Caleb M. February 4, 2018·Banjo·In home

My first lesson was great! I'm already at home practicing the 5-6 rolls that Linds taught me in only 30 minutes. Look forward to learning more!

Raye June 27, 2017·Ukulele·Online

Linda gave me a lot to work on for my first lesson. I am enthusiastic for the week ahead, practicing what she showed me. Great lesson!

Joe G. January 16, 2017·Banjo·In studio

Everything went great teacher is great can't wait until next lesson

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Linda L.

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Linda L.

Tucker, GA 30084

(11)

starting at

$25
/ 30-min

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About Joel M.

Students will learn how to express their thoughts, musically, on the ukulele. They will learn how to listen for ideas and use music literacy to interpret those ideas in a variety of contemporary genres.

About Joel

I started playing recognizable melodies on the piano at 18 months old. At that time I was told that I even had perfect pitch. By age 5, my mother started giving me classical, gospel, and improvisational lessons. I was one of her 50 students until my senior year in high school. Through elementary, junior high, and high school, I received a lot of performance experience from school marching/concert bands, choirs, church choirs, piano concerts, band/choral conducting, and composing.

I received my BBA in Finance from the University of Texas at Arlington; through college and to the present, I have received over 25 years of performing/directing experience from overseeing two mega-church music ministries. At these ministries, I served as the department head, responsible for lead piano, directing, arranging, worship leading, and departmen

tal oversight.

I have produced 10 personal instrumental projects, and I have produced and recorded over 40 projects for other local, regional, and international artists. I currently travel with national, jazz, recording saxophonist, Joseph Vincelli, and my personal band Zamar. We have performed with a number of acts from Kirk Franklin, Darren Rahn, Kirk Whalum, Boney James, Fred Hammond, and many more.

As an instructor, I have been blessed with an ability to be relatable, relevant, musical, creative, fun, and engaging. I understand the language of music as a performer, and instructor, but most importantly, I value the ability to help the student find their own path of learning the joy of making music vocally and instrumentally. With over 18 years of private teaching experience and 30 years of group experience, I have gained a wealth of knowledge on how to be instructive and personal with the young or older beginner, intermediate and even advanced players. Let's grow together musically.

*** Lesson Details ***My teaching style is very laid back, although goal-oriented. We have fun while seeing progress. For piano, I typically use the Alfred Series "Alfred Basics 1 - 6" or the Adult All-in-One for the Older Beginner. In the first 3 - 6 months, one will become familiar with basis technics and concepts behind creating music. These concepts will be the foundation behind learning how to read music, play by ear, and create your own songs in any style.

We would move a little faster for the older beginner and work through the Alfred's All in One in conjunction with introducing my 5 steps to performance for any popular style. These steps have been very valuable for those that are wanting to play piano, guitar, bass, or even sing.

For vocalist, I work through Estelle Liebling, Vocal Course, Alfred Piano (as an instrumental reference) and a number of practical performance techniques that I have gained over the years to sing in more of a pop, jazz, gospel setting. We will work on performance techniques and develop the ear to gain confidence to perform in various popular settings. I will also introduce creative ways to make up original music using basic theory and ear training.

Reviews

Spencer July 11, 2017·Music Theory·In studio

Awesome teacher. Answers every question and explains all concepts thoroughly.

Haley May 9, 2017·Singing·In studio

Joel is not only an outstanding musician, he is also a great teacher! I had the pleasure of taking piano lessons from him and enjoyed every minute of it and learned a ton. His instruction was a wonderful supplement to what I learned at the University. His is very knowledgeable, competent technically and hilarious! In addition to everything he offers musically, he is one of the best people I've ever known. Thank you Joel, for sharing your gifts!

Denine L. April 21, 2014·Bass Guitar·

You will never find a better bass teacher

Joel is a great teacher. He has patience, keeps on track, gives good feedback, and knows all kinds of music. He has taught me bass, and vocals. I am a lead in my school musical and I owe it all to what he has taught me! I would recommend Joel for anyone who wants to learn about music. He is a very good, reliable, professional... all the stuff you look for in a teacher.

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Joel M.

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Joel M.

Online

(5)

starting at

$30
/ 30-min

About Wes F.

I find ukulele to often work better than guitar for many young students (typically years 10 and younger). When appropriate, the student can transition to guitar having increased hand strength and learned many of the concepts needed to excel. Of course, ukulele makes for a fun (and ultra-portable) instrument in its own right!

About Wes

I studied classical guitar and composition at Asbury College and later more in depth guitar studies rock, jazz, and classical at the Atlanta Institute of Music. I have been teaching steadily for the past ten years as well as spending my time with various other musical projects such as leading worship for my church, performing for various parties and weddings, and composing and recording music for a short film. I use my experience and broad understanding of music to inform the way that I teach, so that my students have a robust experience of all aspects of music.

*** Lesson Details ***I have a lesson plan that I follow for beginning students to get them through the basics. As a teacher I am laid back, and positive, but always try to give the student a clear reflection of how they are progressing. I find that some students thrive with

a lot of structure and others prefer a looser approach and I am quite comfortable teaching both ways. If the student maintains a consistent practice regimen, they should be able to play songs from the radio within 3 or 4 months.

*** Studio Equipment ***Lessons in the living room with an amp, keyboard, computer, desk, parents can sit on couch in a separate room

*** Specialties ***I have had a lot of experience teaching beginning and intermediate students with method books, and have used them to teach reading, theory, technique, and repertoire. Most often, I take a slightly looser approach which I feel allows me to mold my teaching to fit the individual student's needs

...

Reviews

Monica H. June 28, 2017·Bass Guitar·In studio

We went over a lot of stuff. Im a cellist who has had bass lessons but was getting difficult for the simple reason that it wasnt methodical in any way. My goel is to transition to upright and Wes has enough musical knowledge to prepare toward that goel.

Jennifer R. June 16, 2014·Guitar·In home

Wes has been teaching my son, age 7, for four months now and we could not be happier! He manages to be very informative while keeping it fun and interesting without being silly or boring. Wes's enthusiasm for the guitar is contagious. I am thrilled with my son's progress and level of continued interest. Thank you Wes!

Christina T. June 12, 2014·Guitar·In studio

Wes is a great teacher -he has a lot of experience and excellent technique. It is evident he loves music/guitar and is equally as passionate for teaching what he loves. He makes learning to play the guitar easy to grasp and he is very patient and encouraging. Looking forward to more jam sessions!

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Wes F.

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Wes F.

Atlanta, GA 30329

(6)

starting at

$35
/ 30-min

About Maria M.

Beginners focus on note and tablature reading basic melodies and chords in the first position. Once they reach the intermediate and advanced stage, we expand and learn to apply the foundation to music the student enjoys based on their own individual goals.

About Maria

MISSION STATEMENT:

The mission of my studio is to create well-rounded, educated musicians who will always have a lifelong passion for the art no matter their long-term goals. I strive for my students to be:

(1) Lifelong learners who develop successful learning habits.(2) Creative and critical thinkers who will become effective communicators.(3) Responsible and respectful members of society who respect other cultures.(4) Able to set short-term and long-term goals and be able to see them through to their success.

TEACHING PHILOSOPHY:

It is of the utmost importance that my students are well-educated in their chosen instrument; they must know and understand music and music-making. Students who can play are a dime a dozen, but students who understand the music they are playing are often hard to find. I teach students to kno

w music thoroughly, not just to “play.” I desire my students to comprehend elements of the score, to use their bodies effectively to make good sound, and to interpret music creatively and according to historical performance practices across all genres of music. Thus, I give students a purposeful education in technique, quality literature, performance and artistry, music theory, and music history.

Although students differ in ability and development, I maintain high expectations for our students. I expect attention and respect in lessons, faithful and diligent practice, careful adherence to instructions, and an “I’ll-do-my-best” attitude. If students regularly meet these expectations, then they will excel to the level that they are able. It is my joy to help students master their music, to do the best they can, and to strive for and achieve excellence.

Lastly, I want students to enjoy and appreciate their instrument, music, and music-making; and I know as as a teacher, I am very influential in making this happen. Students develop enjoyment of music by understanding music, experiencing success in music, being exposed to good and varied genres of music, and receiving instruction from a teacher who is enthusiastic and encouraging. It is my goal to provide all of these opportunities for students, and as a result their lives will be enriched as they enjoy their instrument.

...

Reviews

Jasmine July 22, 2017·Acting·In studio

Best acting coach I've ever used. Helped me land a supporting role in an upcoming movie taping here in Atlanta. I would highly recommend her to anyone.

Dan July 11, 2017·Music Theory·Online

Great teacher. Much better than my theory teachers at Kennesaw State. If it wasn't for Maria I would have never gotten an A or even passed Music Theory or Aural Skills. I plan to start working with her in the fall to help me test out of Group Piano.

Elizabeth Faye July 10, 2017·Piano·In studio

Our child has done so well with Ms. Maria. Lauren has just completed Level 5 of the ABRSM exams this past spring and did fantastic. This is our 5th year with Ms. Maria and we know we made the right choice by switching studios. Lauren is happy and progressing much farther than others in her previous studio. Highly recommend.

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Maria M.

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Maria M.

Atlanta, GA 30342

(17)

starting at

$35
/ 30-min

About Andrew M.

Begin to serenade your friends with one of the coolest and easiest instruments to learn. You will have so much fun playing "Let it Go" on your ukulele or singing your favorite Taylor Swift song on your small 4 stringed instrument.

About Andrew

I have loved music since I was a child. I began playing clarinet when I was 11 years old and slowly picked up new instruments like the saxophone, harmonica, guitar, ukulele, flutes, whistles, kazoo, and others. I enjoy any style of music and have a desire to learn as many instruments as possible. My line-up of new instruments to learn are: accordion, banjo, trombone, the cello. I love to teach and share my passion for music with others. My hope to is make people into learners of music proficient in learning any instrument they wish.

...

Reviews

Aaliyah F. September 8, 2016·Clarinet·In studio

Very professional and knowledgeable of music and playing the instruments. He is a wonderful teacher who is optimistic and truly works hard too bring out the best in his students. My daughter Aaliyah has learned so much in such a short time and we are greatful.

Tracy H. January 14, 2016·Guitar·In home

Simply put, Andrew is the best. His genuine love and passion for all-things music was obvious the first day we met him. He is great with kids. He is flexible yet reliable. We love the fact that he tailors his lessons, homework, and incentives to the needs and interests of each individual student. We are confident that we could not find a better guitar instructor for our daughter.

Shelly January 12, 2016·Acoustic Guitar·In studio

Andrew is an amazing instructor for my daughter. She has blossomed under Andrew!

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Andrew M.

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Andrew M.

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$25
/ 30-min

About Evan C.

Professional musician trained by the New England Conservatory of Music. I work with you to meet and expand upon your goals as a musician. Each lesson is unique to the student and his or her needs. Strong focus in technique, ear training, learning songs, stylistic development, and how to function in a band!

About Evan

I am a professional upright and electric bass player located in Southern New England. I have years of experience as an educator, recording artist, and performer. I am currently pursuing my degree in Jazz Performance from the New England Conservatory of Music in Boston, MA.

I can be found playing with a variety of bands and musicians across all genres. Carley is a member of the Boston based Wedding Band “Speechless,” the modern jazz group “Puppet Club”, and various freelance work. Some of his notable collaborator include Francisco Pais, Jhony Keys, Clay Nordhill, Mark Texiera, Daniella Schatcher, and many others.

I am interested in all styles of music and working with people of all ages and backgrounds! I want to help teach you how to teach yourself, how to practice, and how to grow as a musician. I can help you with everything from jaz

z, to rock, to classical music and beyond.

...

Reviews

Marianne November 2, 2017·Ukulele·In studio

Evan is a patient and talented teacher! I highly recommend taking classes with him!

John September 19, 2017·Bass Guitar·In studio

I have been studying bass with Evan for 3 months now and he has been unbelievably helpful in my studies. He has tons of information and experience to share and always gives practice materials to address my weaknesses!

Recent Ukulele Articlesfrom the Blog

Whether you're just starting out or a seasoned pro,
check out the Ukulele articles on our blog.

Once you've mastered playing chords on the ukulele, you're ready to move on to tackling some songs. Here are 5 easy ukulele songs that are great for beginners. Remember, it's okay to start slow and gradually increase your speed until you're playing the song at its normal tempo.
Alouette
This French folk song is light and breezy. With just two chords for you to master, this is a great song to practice singing
while playing once you get the chord transitions down.
Tabs and chords for …
Read More

How to Play Ukulele: 5 Easy Ukulele Songs

Once you've mastered playing chords on the ukulele, you're ready to move on to tackling some songs. Here are 5 easy ukulele songs that are great for beginners. Remember, it's okay to start slow and gradually increase your speed until you're playing the song at its normal tempo.
Alouette
This French folk song is light and breezy. With just two chords for you to master, this is a great song to practice singing
while playing once you get the chord transitions down.
Tabs and chords for

15 Hawaiian Words Ukulele Players Should Know

When you're taking ukulele lessons, you will learn to play some classic Hawaiian songs. While Hawaiian songs tell stories of love, Hawaiian culture, and history, you may find some new, unfamiliar terms in the lyrics.
To help you out, we've compiled a list of 15 words you may hear when you're learning ukulele. You will hear a mix of traditional Hawaiian words along with some pidgin words (a slang-type language used in Hawaii).
Here are 15 Hawaiian words ukulele players should know...

From Toy Pianos to Ukes: Gift Ideas for Musically-Inclined Kids

Would you love to give your child the gift of music? Introducing music into the life of your child provides an array of benefits, from the sheer joy of music to improved coordination, social and verbal skills, core competency skills, and more. From toy pianos for kids to technological fun, there are a variety of ways to introduce music into the life of a child.
Pass the love of music on to your child with these great gift ideas:
Toy Pianos &amp; Keyboards
From stomping piano dance mats to m

Best Uke for Your Buck: Our Favorite Ukulele Brands for Beginners

Choosing your first ukulele can be tough, especially when you're not sure what to look for. Music teacher McKegg C. suggests checking out a few great models by the best ukulele brands around...
When it comes to picking out a new ukulele, be wary of what to buy. As a beginner you want to make sure youre getting the best deal, but you also dont want to spend too little and buy something that will fall apart in a months time. So, before you embark on your quest to ukulele rock stardom where y

How to Tune a Ukulele

Thanks to its refreshing island sound, the ukulele is becoming an increasingly popular instrument. However, if you don't know how to tune a ukulele properly, its sweet tropical notes can start to go sour fast! Luckily there are several easy methods of tuning that you can use to ensure your ukulele always sounds top notch!
In standard tuning, a ukulele's strings are tuned to the following notes: G on the fourth string from the bottom, C on the third, E on the second, and A on the first or